The Football Forecast

John Stones to stay at the Toffees?

You may know by now that England defender John Stones has put himself on the radar of many clubs. He is certainly a man in demand and looks to have a bright future, not just in the Premier League, but for England too.

Following the elevation in Roy Hodgson’s plans, there is no surprise some of the top clubs are contesting for his signature.

Chelsea have not been quiet confirming their interest for the 21-year-old. With bids in the region of £20m and £26m, Roberto Martinez is adamant he wants to keep one of his most promising players.

When asked how the Stones situation has had an impact, Martinez said:

“The window, when it is open and we have to prepare for official games, is very, very unfair. I don’t think it is right. “I think we forget that footballers have a human side and it can really affect. Players like Stones and [Ross] Barkley have an incredible future and will attract interest from the outside.

“As a football club these players are going to be a part of our success in the future, so we take [interest] as a positive compliment.”

And with a third bid in excess of £30 million rumoured to be in the pipeline, Everton may be forced to sell another star to a top team.

So, should Stones leave Goodison Park for the Champions?

At the top

With Mourinho’ and John Terry backing him, and with the best training facilities in the country, if not Europe, he could become a top defender.

Music to Roy Hodgson

With three England defenders all competing for a place in Chelsea’s starting 11, there is no doubt Hodgson will approve of that. Also, if John Terry calls it a day, an England pairing at the back will live on with arguably the best manager in Europe at the helm.

This will be music to Roy Hodgson’s ears as this move would enhance Stones’ chances of starting for England sooner rather than later. With the Euro’s coming up, he definitely will be in contention.

Champions League

Every player wants to play in the Champions League. If Stones makes it there, playing against the likes of Ronaldo, Messi and Suarez can only benefit the former Burnley man.

However there is a flip side. The bench. Mourinho could feel it’s too valuable to drop Cahill and Terry, which will result in Stones not getting enough experience he would gain at Everton and playing a few cup games could jeopardise his England career as a whole.

Verdict

In order for him to become the player he’s destined to be, he cannot be on the bench. He should stick with the Toffee’s for the time being and not look back. With European football almost a given, a slight chance of Champion League football might be the last thing on his mind at the moment.

What do you think, should the defender stay at Everton? Let us know below.